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20 Jun, 2017 by Patrick
Jordan and the firm he works for represented me in a labor dispute with a former employer. He kept me informed throughout the process offering sound legal advice and helped me through a difficult time! His positive approach backed with extensive legal knowledge was a winning combination! I found him and his firm easy to work with having my best interest at heart. If you find yourself looking for a legal team you can trust, I would highly recommend Jordan and the firm of Griffin / Williams LLP to anyone who needs great legal representation!
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24 Jul, 2014 by Bill
Jordan is a very knowledgeable attorney. He was able to have a case against me dismissed after he pierced the other attorney's lawsuit. Jordan is also a very personable and responsive person to work with.
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26 Jun, 2014 by Dave
We dealt with Jordan in resolving a particularly difficult fraud case. There were a number of parties involved, all pointing fingers at each other. Jordan kept us informed of all of the issues; he kept us confident that eventually results would happen as everything got sorted out while it dragged on. In the end, Jordan and his firm came through, just as he explained would likely happen. I would highly recommend him for his professionalism, his great communication skills, and getting results.
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11 Jan, 2013 by Jake
My wife and I recently purchased our first house and couldn't have had a better experience. It was comforting to have a lawyer who took the time to explain all the complex details and couldn't have been happier with the service.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Jas f
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08 Feb, 2024 by Laure carlson
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21 Apr, 2023 by Jim c
Jim Cooke genuinely cares and has your best interest at heart.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Jas f
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08 Jul, 2024 by J f
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08 Jul, 2024 by Therese ingold
Service was exceptional. Quick responses to my questions. I felt the entire staff was focused on my needs. Fees were very reasonable.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Aileen acosta
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13 Feb, 2021 by Elaine
I first met Bill when he was the attorney for the plaintiffs when I was the defendant. I liked him then and I like him now. He is an excellent attorney and a truly nice person. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
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16 Sep, 2020 by Mike bottoms
Wow, let me share the experience I just had during my "free consultation" phone call this morning. I called to see if I had a legal standing about a HOA covenant that is in question. The attorney started by asking if I wanted free advice or am I looking for a lawyer, to which I responded "I don't know, that's why I'm calling, to see if anything can be done.". Then, he's like "What's the issue?". After telling him the issue, he basically went off, stating "I can't help you, they can do whatever they want, and he'd have to review all the documents", and then loudly, "I can't do that for free!." First, I had never asked him to do that for free, and I responded with "I would've been happy to pay you to review the documents, but given the poor experience on this call, I'll go elsewhere, thank you.". This guy must have been having a really bad morning! I wish I had the audio so everyone could hear how rude he was. Stay away from this firm...
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03 Jun, 2024 by Thomas amalgamist
Phil Lengle did an amazing job ensuring everything moved along at a reasonable pace. He gave a realistic and accurate assessment on how the case would most likely conclude. I am very happy with the outcome and overall experience!
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16 May, 2024 by Ania
there is no star option. When Peter Follenweider took my case pro bono I thought I won a lottery as I could not afford a lawyer when my husband filed for divorce. I was misrepresented by Peter and I still wonder what is the connection between him and the judge. My sister in law wrote to me: You have been validated. You got screwed. I don’t know what more I can say. I was left by my husband in Poland with 2 small children with no job no money no housing still the judge did not award me any alimony. All this with the permission and on the watch of Peter. He did not fight for my justice at all. I am in late 50's with no assets. I do not have my own house. I have many medical issues that effect my earning while my ex enjoys 5000+ VA benefits a month tax free with his lover. His disabilities are supposedly PTSD but he is absolutely fit and healthy. n my opinion his disabilities are a hoax. Stay away from Peter Follenweider. He ruin my life. I look with fear in the next year as my salary of 1000 USD a month is just enough to rent studio. I do not have a car.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Jennifer osterberg
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02 May, 2023 by Amina mashrah
Had such an odd and out of the norm legal matter which Mr. Michael A. Chapski and his Associates did such a great job resolving and settling within no time. His practice and legal team were the best recommendation I got from a family member of mine. They all were great and easy to work with, professional all throughout, great time management, kind and understanding. Their online payment method was user friendly with useful options. I would highly recommend Chapski and his associates to anyone in need of their legal services because I had such a great experience with them. Thank you, Mike, Lory, and Kim!!
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07 Dec, 2022 by Brandy hertel
Michael Chapski and his staff are very knowledgeable of Illinois family law and treat clients with respect. Sometimes highly knowledgeable attorneys can be condescending, but not Michael Chapski. He will answer your questions in a way you will understand. He and his staff work very efficiently and keep the best interests of their family law client at top of mind. Very professional firm, I highly recommend for any family law case in Kane County.
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06 Dec, 2022 by Amanda williams
Terrible receptionist filtering calls for Robert, Laurie. She gives false legal advice. Don't trust this agency if I'm not allowed to speak directly to Robert. Email doesn't work either.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Trevor
Handled my real estate closing flawlessly, and more importantly, made it seem so easy. Thank you!
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17 Aug, 2024 by James l. butler
Michael Lenert and team. My family and I sincerely appreciate your endeavors for ensuring our pain of the past six years had not been forgotten. When six (6) previous attorneys were either too lazy or simply failed to care to honor our case, you and your firm not only showed a high level of professionalism and empathy, you maintained effective communication with us each step of this journey. Thank you. Thank you. You are certainly an asset we would utilize again if the situation warrants a legal professional you emulate.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Sarah coix
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01 Jun, 2017 by Dan
Unfortunately, my mother passed away 2 years ago and my step father (rather his daughters who I didn't even know) got to pick Mr Smith as one of the daughters had worked with Mr Smith previously. I decided at first to not hire a lawyer and give Mr Smith a chance (since I didn't want to pay for both my own lawyer and Mr Smith.) Mr. Smith was either very lazy and/or strategically lazy in responding to my phone calls and emails. For instance, I asked Mr. Smith how would the assets in my mother's house be divided between me and my step father. I specifically mentioned a piano. This question was ignored for three months. Finally, when I got him on the phone and I am not exagerrating here...he told me he is unable to use a computer and his secretary was out of town and he needed her to print out all emails. When he first told me, I actually feel guilty as if he had a disability and was a protective class. But then I said this is ridiculous a lawyer in 2016 not being able to read emails on a computer?? So, basically, he left it to my step sisters to arbitrarily divide the assets up bletween myself and my stepfather (actually really, them as well..as they someone had the idea in their mind they were beneficiaries too, though I didn't know them and they were never close to my mother). So I had to hire a lawyer to set this matter out. Thank god for Zillow and the pictures the realtor took, as this provided the proof we needed that my step sisters were pocketing my mother's possession themselves. Mr. Smith had no interest in any of this or as acting as a mediator. And this ended up turning what should be a simple short case into a long drawn out and expensive case that is still not settled over two years later.
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What a Business Lawyer Can Do for You

A business lawyer provides critical legal guidance and support to entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses. Whether you are forming a new company, drafting contracts, or navigating complex regulations, a business attorney ensures you are legally protected and operating within the law. They can also help prevent legal disputes or represent you in negotiations, transactions, or lawsuits that arise during the course of business operations.

Business lawyers have expertise in areas such as business formation, contract law, intellectual property, employment law, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. They ensure that your business is compliant with relevant laws and help mitigate risks that could threaten your company's success.

When Should I Hire a Business Lawyer?

Hiring a business lawyer is essential at various stages of business development, including:

  • Forming a business: When deciding on the best structure for your company (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.), a lawyer can guide you through the registration and compliance process.
  • Drafting contracts: If you need contracts for employees, partners, suppliers, or clients, a lawyer ensures these documents are legally sound and in your best interest.
  • Mergers, acquisitions, or dissolutions: If you are buying, selling, or dissolving a company, legal counsel is critical to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Compliance and regulatory issues: A lawyer can help navigate complex regulations, particularly in industries like healthcare, finance, or tech.
  • Resolving disputes: Whether it's contract disagreements, intellectual property infringement, or employment issues, a business lawyer helps mediate, negotiate, or litigate on your behalf.

What Does a Business Lawyer Do?

Business lawyers provide a wide range of services that cater to different legal needs of a business. They can:

  • Help you choose the best legal structure for your business.
  • Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with employees, suppliers, customers, or business partners.
  • Ensure regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
  • Advise on tax strategies to minimize your business's tax burden.
  • Assist with intellectual property protection, such as trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
  • Handle mergers, acquisitions, and business sales, ensuring all legal paperwork is in order.
  • Resolve disputes through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation.

How Are Business Lawyers Paid?

Business lawyers typically charge either by the hour or on a flat-fee basis, depending on the complexity of the work. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rates: The lawyer charges based on the time spent working on your case. Rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
  • Flat fees: For certain tasks, such as incorporating a business or drafting a standard contract, a lawyer may offer a flat fee.
  • Retainer: Some businesses may hire a lawyer on retainer, paying a fixed amount each month to have ongoing access to legal services.

The payment structure is often discussed during an initial consultation so you can choose the one that best suits your business needs and budget.

How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a business lawyer depends on factors such as:

  • The complexity of the legal issue: More complex matters, like mergers or intellectual property disputes, typically cost more than routine tasks like contract drafting.
  • The lawyer's experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in larger cities often charge higher fees.
  • The nature of the billing arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer's expertise. Flat fees are usually available for simpler matters like forming an LLC or drafting a standard contract.

It's essential to discuss fee structures upfront to avoid surprises.

Top Questions to Ask a Business Lawyer

Before hiring a business lawyer, ask the following questions during your consultation:

  1. What is your experience with businesses like mine?
    Find out if the lawyer has handled legal issues for companies in your industry.
  2. What services do you offer?
    Ensure the lawyer can meet all your business's legal needs, from contract drafting to dispute resolution.
  3. What are your fees, and how do you bill?
    Get clarity on how you'll be charged - whether by the hour, flat fee, or retainer.
  4. How do you handle conflicts of interest?
    Ask how the lawyer ensures there is no conflict in representing your business.
  5. Can you provide references from other business clients?
    Speaking with past clients will give you an idea of the lawyer's expertise and professionalism.
  6. Do you have experience in my specific industry?
    Industry-specific knowledge can be crucial, especially in highly regulated fields like healthcare or finance.

How to Check the Credibility of a Business Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable business lawyer:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is in good standing and has no disciplinary actions against them.
  • Look for client reviews or testimonials: Online reviews, testimonials, or word of mouth from other business owners can provide insight into the lawyer's reliability and effectiveness.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have satisfied clients who can vouch for their services.
  • Check professional memberships: Membership in respected legal organizations (such as the American Bar Association or a local business lawyer association) can signal credibility.
  • Review their website and professional profile: A well-established lawyer typically has a professional website showcasing their areas of expertise, credentials, and case success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a business lawyer, prepare the following:

  • A description of your business and its structure: This will help the lawyer understand your legal needs.
  • Any current contracts or agreements: If you're seeking contract advice, bring copies of existing contracts.
  • A list of legal issues or concerns: Be ready to discuss any potential legal challenges, such as regulatory compliance, disputes, or transactions.
  • Financial documents: If applicable, bring financial records related to the legal matter you're seeking help with.
  • Questions about fees and billing: Ensure you understand the lawyer’s payment structure and fees upfront.

By preparing these materials, you can ensure that your first meeting with a business lawyer is productive and informative.

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